Health Warning: Cyanobacteria Bloom – Lake Spectacle (Rodney District) - 7 Dec 2006

Thursday 7th December 2006

The latest laboratory results confirm that an algal bloom of Cyanobacteria in Lake Spectacle has breached trigger levels.

Auckland Regional Public Services Medical Officer of Health Dr Richard Hoskins says that this site has returned a cell count above the health warning level of the potentially toxin producing algae. The warning is for all parts of the lake.

Water samples taken show that there is significant bloom activity in the lake.

The health warning recommends that the water should not be used for drinking, nor should anyone undertake any activity which would result in significant skin contact with the lake water.

The blooms can disappear as quickly as they arise. The Rodney District Council will continue to monitor the lake on a regular basis. The Rodney council have erected warning signs at public access points to the lake.

For more information, please call

Rodney District Council

Auckland Regional Public Health Services
Dr Richard Hoskins / Dr Denise Barnfather/
Health Protection Officer 09 – 623 4600

Factsheet on Cynobacteria Bloom